Ideas For National Trails Day (June 7)

National Trails Day is June 7, 2014. We encourage you to get out and enjoy trails of all kinds. The best ones are in Utah, of course.

Our friend Michele Hill shared some this interesting article with ideas on activities in the Moab area. Below are excerpts.

...This year seek "Vertical Trails", an introduction into canyoneering the deep crevasses of Moab and an opportunity to visit seldom seen sections of desert canyons that are inaccessible without the use of ropes and technical gear.

...The trip, "Ephedra's Grotto", begins with a short hike across ancient petrified sand dunes, leading into a dry rock wash. Quickly the wash turns into a dry waterfall that seems to almost disappear into the tightest, deepest rain gutter imaginable. "We go down there?!" is the usual question after peering over the edge, and indeed, the trail descends into that slot. This exquisite rappel is the first obstacle in reaching the entrance to the amazing and not-at-all-famous Grotto.

For those with an uneasiness with heights, seek trails in Arches or Canyonlands National Parks. Magnificent landscape wonders dapple the scenery, all available from one destination, Moab. Beat the heat in southeastern Utah by hiking early in the day or later evenings. The National Parks are open 24 hours, even though the park visitor center is limited to 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mid-day visit the film or Moab Museums, seek out the wineries for a tasting, reserve a Colorado River excursion, or hang by a swimming pool. Summer time, sunset occurs around 8:30 p.m. Remember to drink plenty of water.

Speaking of Moab, below is a great new video that highlights some of the many adventure activities available in the area. 

2014 Summer Gear Guide | Gateway City: Moab from Active Junky on Vimeo.